WS1 - Multi-channel surface EMG: techniques and applications

Multi-channel surface EMG uses mono or bi-dimensional electrode arrays to detect surface EMG (sEMG).
Bi-dimensional electrode arrays provide a 3D representation of the electrical potential on the skin over one muscle or a group of muscles. The first two dimensions are the 2D coordinates of electrodes on the skin surface and the third dimension is time. Potentials measured by surface electrodes provide an "image" at every sample instant which evolves in time like a movie.
This time evolution can be observed in different scales that define the level of details available. The highest degree of detail can be observed by every single sample (local scale) whereas, by averaging sampled values over space or time, details are lost and a more global presentation of events is obtained (global scale).
The local scale supports the extraction of information on the individual MUAPs and their firing patterns. The global scale shows patterns of activation of individual muscles and muscle groups.
This workshop will introduce the multi-channel sEMG technique through the basic concepts about the signal detection and conditioning, the extraction of neuromuscular system anatomical, peripheral, and central information, the applications in neurorehabilitation and neuroprosthetics. The workshop will provide one hands-on session during which the participants will be able to practice the acquisition and analysis of multi-channel sEMG.

Goals

The Workshop participants will learn and carry out all the steps to detect and interpret multi-channel sEMG signals. They will learn the basics about multi-channel sEMG recording, how the detected signals can be interpreted and the new frontiers this technique opens in neuro-rehabilitation.

Program

Holobar A. Single MU analysis by means of multi-channel sEMG decompositionFarina D. Multi-channel sEMG for the extraction of central neuromuscular system information

Hands-on Positioning of the detection systems on different musclesSignal acquisition during isometric contractions Signal quality checkInterpretation of the raw signals for the identification of anatomical muscle characteristics